Moving to Whitehorse? Insider Tips for Integrating into the Whitehorse Community

So you’ve made the move to Whitehorse. You’ve sorted out the essentials—found a place to live, navigated healthcare and schools, maybe even landed a job. Now comes the part that truly makes this place feel like home: becoming part of the community.

Here’s how to build real connections, get involved, and start living like a local in Whitehorse.

1. Get Involved in Local Groups and Clubs

Whitehorse has a strong community spirit, and getting involved is one of the fastest ways to meet people. Whether you’re into fitness, hiking, arts, or social causes, there’s a club or organization for you. Some popular options:

• Sport and recreation clubs – Hockey, cross-country skiing, curling, and climbing are big here.
• Arts and music – Join a choir, take a workshop, or check out the Yukon Arts Centre.
• Special interest groups – From amateur astronomy to knitting circles, you’ll find something niche.

Many clubs are active year-round, and they welcome new members. You don’t need to be an expert—just show up and be willing to participate.

2. Volunteer Your Time

Volunteering is a great way to build relationships and give back. Whitehorse runs on volunteers—from festivals and non-profits to local events and emergency services. Some places to start:

• Volunteer Yukon (online portal for matching with causes)
• Yukon Quest (iconic dog sled race needs all kinds of help)
• Food banks and shelters
• Local schools and youth programs

The people you meet while volunteering often become part of your social circle, and it helps you get a deeper sense of how the community works.

3. Support Local Businesses

Shop local, eat local, hire local. Supporting small businesses in Whitehorse is more than just economics—it’s part of the social fabric.

Try these:

• Independent coffee shops and cafés
• Farmers’ markets (like Fireweed Community Market)
• Artisanal goods and crafts from Yukon artists
• Outdoor gear stores run by locals who actually use the gear

You’ll not only find quality products, but you’ll also meet business owners and neighbors who’ll remember your name.

4. Tap Into the Online Community

Whitehorse is remote, but it’s digitally connected. Join community Facebook groups like Whitehorse Buy and Sell, Whitehorse Rant & Rave, or specific neighborhood pages. You’ll find everything from event announcements to housing leads and local advice.

Just remember: online etiquette matters here. Stay respectful, contribute meaningfully, and people will respond in kind.

5. Embrace the Outdoors when Moving to Whitehorse

Northern life is built around the outdoors—don’t fight it, join it. You don’t need to be hardcore. Just start with the basics:

• Try snowshoeing or hiking on local trails (Millennium Trail is a good intro).
• Check out the Canada Games Centre for indoor and outdoor activity options.
• Go aurora chasing in winter or take a canoe out in summer – these are great benefits of moving to Whitehorse.

You’ll discover that Whitehorse is a community that doesn’t hibernate—it adapts.

6. Show Up to Events

Whitehorse hosts a steady stream of festivals, markets, concerts, and public gatherings. Show up—even if you don’t know anyone. It’s how people here connect.

A few highlights:

• Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous (a winter festival with serious personality)
• Available Light Film Festival
• Adäka Cultural Festival (celebrating Yukon First Nations arts and culture)
• Canada Day celebrations downtown

The more you go, the more familiar faces you’ll start to see.

Moving to Whitehorse – Beyond the Basics

Settling into Whitehorse is more than logistics—it’s about building roots. By showing up, giving back, and staying open to new experiences, you’ll find your place here faster than you think.

Still in the early stages of your move? Check out The Whitehorse Relocation Guide for essential tips on housing, schools, jobs, and utilities. Everything starts there.

Get in touch with me if you want to learn more!